The season finale in Abu Dhabi marked not only the end of the world championship, but also the last race for Sauber before the team continues under the name Audi from 2026, which is taking over the Swiss team. Peter Sauber was present to witness the farewell of his team, while Nico Hülkenberg managed to score points in Sauber’s final race.
Hülkenberg qualified eighteenth, but drove a strong race and overtook teammate Bortoleto in the final lap. Initially, he finished eleventh, but due to penalties for Oliver Bearman and Lance Stroll, he moved up to ninth place, earning two points in his 250th Grand Prix and in the very last race for Sauber. “To be honest, after yesterday and starting from P18, I’m very happy with this,” said Hülkenberg. “Yesterday just didn’t go well and we shortchanged ourselves a bit. It’s tough to come back from so far behind, especially when everyone is driving at about the same pace. So I’m glad we still managed to get two points. For me, this is a nice and fitting end to the season and the last race for Sauber.”
Hülkenberg had words of praise for Peter Sauber. The Sauber driver commended the Swiss for his long service in Formula 1 and the impact he has had on the team and the sport. “Peter’s legacy will certainly live on. He’s been in the sport for so long. Respect to him and for everything he has achieved and done,” said Hülkenberg. “Of course, we’re going to process this season first and regroup. The winter is not long this year, so I’m curious about the new cars.”
Here is Peter Sauber’s farewell in Abu Dhabi:
